Chilam: the excellent Mexican gastrobar restaurant in Paris

What if we treat ourselves with a beautiful immersion in the land of the Mayas? How about living an incredible culinary getaway in Mexico without leaving Paris? If you’re in, head to the Marais neighborhood and push the doors of Chilam Gastrobar to discover its delicious tacos, acclaimed by the well-considered connoisseurs!

There are many restaurants devoted to world’s cuisine in Paris. Italian, Japanese, Chilean, Mexican… Parisians and tourists don’t have to travel the world to find happiness. But finding THE restaurant that stands out, that has something else that takes you to the country is no mean feat.

For all lovers of Mexican cuisine, we invite you to discover Chilam as soon as possible. Behind this name in reference to Chilam Balam, the famous Indigenous writings written after the Conquest, hides a joyful duo: Juan, from southern Mexico, and Lucia from Southern Italia. Everything starts with the launch of a food truck in Paris. Then, in 2017, it’s the confirmation of their business since they win the first prize for best tacos of the year, awarded during the Que Gusto Festival.

Following this success, the two partners in crime decided to set down in full heart of Paris and share their Mexican-inspired gastronomic recipes. And it’s at 12 rue des Ecouffes, in the Marais area, that this lovely and very colorful eatery is to be found. In a laid-back and very friendly atmosphere, foodies rush to enjoy the house’s succulent tacos.

“Barbacoa de Pato” taco

On the menu, we also discover the signature tacos: the “Al Pastor” rock lobster based on Achiote (a spice from Yucatan) and Chipotle (marinated jalapeño) enhanced by a splash or tequila and roasted pineapple.

Six other tacos are to be discovered including the “Barbacoa de Pato” made of duck simmered and flavored with Mexican spices and served with guacamole, or the excellent and surprising “Cochinita Pibil” with pork marinated for 24 hours in a preparation based on achiote, pulled pork and cooked at low temperature… The whole is to be enjoyed rolled in a delicious and thin tortilla prepared with organic Mexican corn!

“Cochinita Pibil” taco

For vegetarian foodies, go for the “Frijolitos Refritos” with a creamy purée of organic Mexican black beans and served with fresh cheese and avocado.

Chilam also offers, for the eaters in a rush, the famous burritos with pork, rock lobsters or a vegan version.

And Mexican cuisine obliges, the house also offers boards to share including the major guacamole and an excellent purée of black beans, or the quesadillas (artisanal wheat tortilla stuffed with cheese and avocado and flavored with Chipotle chili).

Quesadillas

And to accompany these delicious plates, patrons can slake their thirst by sipping cocktails such as the “Beso Mortal” (Mezcal, hibiscus, chili, cinnamon, rosemary and sugar) or beers such as the excellent artisanal Mexican beer, the Cucapa.

More than a catering area, Chilam is a genuine living area where regulars gladly come, easily speaking with the owners who are always available and smiling!

In short, flavors explode in the mouth, you discover savors you’ve never tasted before, and the atmosphere is full of good mood and friendliness… Here is the successful recipe to be discovered in Chilam which continues to rise. Proof of it, Chilam will take over a new wintery spot in Ground Control in Paris, expected from January 19, 2018, and will also open another address near Bastille in February 2018.

Practical information:Chilam 12 rue des Ecouffes – 75004 Paris Open from Tuesday to Friday, from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. / Saturday from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. / Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tacos: from €5 to €12 / Boards to share from €6 to €9.50 / Burritos from €11 to €17 / Cocktails from €8 to €9 Take-away order available for burritos and quesadillas